The Beginning of Knowledge
1 These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David,
king of Israel,
2 for gaining wisdom and discipline,
for comprehending words of insight,
3 and for receiving instruction in wise living
and in righteousness, justice, and equity.
4 To impart prudence to the simple1:4 The Hebrew word rendered simple in Proverbs refers to one who is naive, without moral direction, or inclined to evil.
and knowledge and discretion to the young,
5 let the wise listen and gain instruction,
and the discerning acquire wise counsel
6 by understanding the proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.